Highlights of Hope - Spring/Summer 2015

Data shows that U.S. students are under-performing in math and science compared to their international peers. Teachers recognize that one key to solving the problem lies in technology, yet very few believe they have the effective digital instructional tools they need. Designed by teachers for teachers, NexGen Inquiry provides educators with a virtual classroom with digital scientific journal materials that provide an inquiry-based approach to their existing curriculum.

“What’s critical is that teachers are able to design custom templates based

on their proven curriculum, and push it to the student through an electronic journal,” said Jim Nicolette, associate director of VAEI.

Affordable Educational ToolsVAEI has been building a regional science teacher community at the Science Academy in Grand Rapids, Michigan for the past decade. Expanding on the great success of these programs regionally, the Institute is optimistic about the prospects of extending these best practices on the national stage.

“This is a groundbreaking opportunity for education benefactors to equip a school, or an entire school district, with NexGen Inquiry for around $.25 per student per year,” said Michelle Castro, an education consultant for Ottawa Area Intermediate School District. “From a national perspective, America is falling behind, so Van Andel Education Institute has simply taken cost out of the equation when it comes to helping us catch up.”

You Can Help Transform Classrooms Your help is critical to introduce NexGen Inquiry to teachers across the country and begin transforming classrooms. 100% of your support allows VAEI to impact a greater number of teachers and students. For more information on directly supporting Van Andel Education Institute, call 616.234.5040 or visit www.vai.org.

HIGHLIGHTSSPRING/SUMMER 2015 VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE’S

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HOPEYour Help Empowers Science Teachers Across the Country Thanks to your support, in July Van Andel Education Institute (VAEI) will launch NexGen Inquiry, an innovative new cloud-based science investigation platform to educators across the nation. NexGen Inquiry fosters better communication, expands teacher professional development and provides a support and resource community.

Learn more about NexGen Inquiry at www.nexgeninquiry.com.

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Meet the Scientists: The Center for Epigenetics

2 | Van Andel Institute Highlights of Hope

In the last year, Van Andel Research Institute's (VARI) Center for Epigenetics has added five new faculty to its roster of scientists. Dr. Peter W. Laird, head of the Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, and Dr. Hui Shen, head of the Laboratory of Epigenomic Analysis in Human Disease, were the first of these appointments and arrived at VARI in September 2014. Shen previously worked with Laird at the University of Southern California’s (USC) Epigenome Center, where Laird served as director. Both scientists also played integral roles in The Cancer Genome Atlas, a National Institutes of Health project to better understand cancer through large-scale genomic sequencing. At the heart of Laird and Shen’s work is epigenetics, the study of how the packaging and modification of DNA affects gene expression without changing the DNA sequence.

Dr. Peter W. Laird Laird and his team work to uncover the molecular basis of cancer in order to develop novel cancer diagnostics and prevention strategies. His research focuses on epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation, a normal process related to gene expression, and how it affects cancer development. In cancer, tumor suppressor genes can become inappropriately methylated, which can switch them “off” and cause uncontrolled cell division and the formation of tumors.

Dr. Hui Shen Shen’s work focuses on cancer epigenomics, with an emphasis on female cancers. She also specializes in bioinformatics, or the use of software and computing to analyze biological data, which will be a valuable addition to the Institute’s already robust bioinformatics and biostatistics expertise.

If you are interested in supporting the work of Dr. Laird and Dr. Shen, please call 616.234.5030 or visit www.vai.org.

SPRING/SUMMER 2015 VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE’S

Drs. Stephen Baylin, Peter Jones and George F. Vande Woude, all of Van Andel Research Institute, are three members of the illustrious Fellows of the American Association of Cancer Research Academy. Fellows are selected through a rigorous peer review process that evaluates individuals on the basis of their stellar scientific achievements in cancer research or cancer-related biomedical science.

Good Fellows

Left to right: Dr. Stephen Baylin, Dr. Peter Jones and Dr. George F. Vande Woude

Van Andel Institute Highlights of Hope | 3

Humans have long sought to understand the process of aging and how to combat its effects.

In the mid-twentieth century, a scientist named Dr. Denham Harman put forth the free radical theory of aging, which states that reactive oxygen species (ROS, or free radicals) cause damage that accumulates over time, leading to the hallmark signs of aging. Oxidative damage caused by ROS also has been linked to the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s.

In recent years, molecules called antioxidants that inactivate ROS have become a popular method for trying to combat the effects of aging and are an important focus for research into the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases and other conditions. Dr. Jeremy Van Raamsdonk, an assistant professor and head of the Laboratory of Aging and Neurodegenerative Disease at Van Andel Research Institute, has provided novel insights into the free radical theory of aging, which may

have fundamental implications for how antioxidant use can affect the aging process and longevity.

Small Organism, Significant Impact Van Raamsdonk studies the worm Caenorhabditis elegans, which provides a model for studying aging and for better understanding how ROS impact lifespan. About half of C. elegans’ genes have a human counterpart, including many of those associated with aging. The worm also has a short three-week lifespan, which provides Van Raamsdonk an effective and quick way to gather information on how ROS and antioxidants affect the aging process.

Using the worm as a model, the team discovered that ROS affect longevity differently depending on where the ROS are located in the cell—high ROS levels in the cell’s cytoplasm, which is the main compartment of the cell, decreases lifespan, while the presence of high ROS levels in the mitochondria, which serves as the source of cellular energy, increases lifespan.

“The common theory predicts that if ROS cause aging you would expect that increasing ROS levels would accelerate the aging process and decrease lifespan,” Van Raamsdonk said. “When we tested this in the worm, utilizing a genetic approach, we found that the relationship between ROS, antioxidants and aging is not as simple as we once thought. For antioxidant treatments to be beneficial, it might be necessary to target the antioxidant to a specific location in the cell.”

Understanding how the location and levels of ROS impacts longevity can help scientists target antioxidant

treatments to those areas where ROS decrease lifespan, such as the cytoplasm. The study also provides an important roadmap of areas where antioxidant treatments may have an unintended negative impact and should be avoided.

Your Donations MatterFuture research is still needed to determine the role of ROS and antioxidants in the aging process. This knowledge might eventually be used to promote longevity and to combat age-related conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease. Your generosity can play a vital role in the continuation of this important research regarding the aging process and age-related disease.

You can support Dr. Jeremy Van Raamsdonk by calling 616.234.5030, or learn more about his research by visiting www.vai.org.

New Insights on Aging and Antioxidants

Individual donors like you can make a direct impact on the work of VAI scientists, because when you donate to benefit research, 100% of your donation goes directly into their labs.

Dr. Jeremy Van Raamsdonk

Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder that is chronic and progressive, meaning that symptoms continue and worsen over time. Brent Peterson—who has suffered from Parkinson’s since 2003—is beating the odds, which he revealed to scientists and guests during Van Andel Institute’s Facing Off Against Parkinson’s Disease seminar in February.

Life with Parkinson’s“There was a time when leaving my house was unimaginable,” said Peterson, a retired NHL player and coach who was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 1978.

Peterson’s impressive mobility after 12 years of living with the disease is the result of a procedure known as deep brain stimulation (DBS), in which a small device is surgically implanted deep into the brain. Operating similarly to a pacemaker, DBS patients regain their mobility in response to electrical charges sent into the brain from a battery-operated device.

Inspiring OthersThanks to donors like you and a generous sponsorship from Medtronic, VAI was able to host an event for people living with Parkinson’s disease at no cost, offering them insight into DBS, recommendations on dietary

changes from leading experts and a chance to be inspired by someone living with Parkinson’s.

Peterson and his wife, Tami, also served as special guests at the Grand Rapids Griffins Purple Game where they participated in the puck-drop ceremony. 100% of funds raised at the game were directed to cancer and Parkinson’s research at VAI.


Facing Off Against Parkinson’s–Together

Brent and Tami Peterson participated in the puck-drop ceremony at the Grand Rapids Griffins Purple Game during their visit to Grand Rapids.

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Brent Peterson shared his experiences of living with Parkinson’s disease with guests at Van Andel Institute in February.



Thank you to our sponsors who have increased their commitment by 100% since 2013! If you are an individual or business interested in sponsoring this year’s event, please contact us at 616.234.5030.

Grand Challenges in Parkinson’s Disease: The role of alpha-synuclein will be held Sept. 30-Oct. 1, 2015, at Van Andel Institute. The annual scientific symposium brings together scientists, clinicians, advocates and people with Parkinson’s to explore the latest Parkinson’s disease research.

During Grand Challenges, Van Andel Research Institute will present the Jay Van Andel Award for Outstanding Achievement in Parkinson’s Disease Research to two recipients, who will each give keynote lectures highlighting their significant research

contributions. This year’s awardees are Dr. Maria Grazia Spillantini of the University of Cambridge, and Dr. Robert Nussbaum of the University of California, San Francisco.

The symposium also features Rallying to the Challenge, an event where caregivers and those living with Parkinson’s disease can learn about how improvements in biomedical research and the clinical trial process are having an impact on Parkinson’s therapies.

Registration is $75 for both days and $50 for one day. Register today at grandchallengesinpd.org.

Register for Grand Challenges in Parkinson’s Disease 2015!

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Board of Governors Responsibilities and Benefits • Annual commitment of $3,000;

• Serve as ambassadors and advance the mission and vision of Van Andel Institute (VAI) in the local and national community;

• Remain current on research and educational advancements underway at VAI;

• Attend special events, lunches and lectures when possible;

• Provide perspectives and ideas aimed at advancing VAI’s vision and development activities;

• Serve as ambassadors in the community by engaging with new prospects and encouraging them to join.

The Board of Governors will have a minimum of two invitation lectures and one social engagement each year. Events and benefits include:

• 2 complimentary tickets to the invitation-only Carol Van Andel Angel of Excellence Dinner & Award Presentation;

• 2 complimentary tickets to Hope on the Hill;

• Han-Mo Koo Memorial Lecture;

• Daniel Nathans Memorial Lecture;

• Lunch & Learns with J-Board Members.

Thank You Van Andel Institute Board of Governors Members of Van Andel Institute’s Board of Governors support the Institute financially and are the ambassadors who share our mission, vision and important work with others to help us gain further support to advance our efforts.

Young Professionals Encouraged to Join Van Andel Institute J-BoardJ-Board Ambassadors provide a forum, framework, and opportunity to build engaging relationships between young professionals and Van Andel Institute.

Join the J-Board online at www.vai.org/j-board or call us at 616.234.5712.

If you are interested in the Board of Governors, please contact www.vai.org/bog or call us at 616.234.5712.

J-Board Responsibilities and Benefits • Become the next generation

of ambassadors by sharing VAI’s mission with friends and acquaintances;

• Provide outreach to individuals that may not otherwise connect to the Institute through four event engagements per year. Additionally, all members may invite two business associates to the annual J-Board dinner each year;

• Support VAI financially with a donation of $250 per year per person;

• Learn firsthand about the cutting-edge biomedical research and science education by attending lectures and luncheons sponsored by the J-Board;

• Attend J-Board Ambassadors events that are networking opportunities with peers;

• Receive news and information about annual VAI events on a regular basis;

• Receive invitations to annual health science forums and luncheons throughout the year;

• Receive two complimentary tickets to VAI’s Winterfest Celebration held every February;

• Recognition on VAI’s website and in VAI’s annual report.



Honoring a Beloved Father“As a child, my exposure to science education was in school and during time spent with my dad,” said Rottman. “My parents helped introduce me to a world where work is done to help others, oftentimes through science, which now includes volunteering and supporting science education at Van Andel Institute.”

Rottman’s late father, Fritz, served on VAI’s Board of Trustees after retiring from teaching and research at Michigan State University, and later at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Prior to his years as a

professor, Fritz was a postdoctoral fellow at the National Institutes of Health, where he helped begin to unravel the genetic code in the 1960s.

Rottman continues his father's legacy through the efforts of the Rottman Family Charitable Foundation, where along with his mother Carol, remains committed to supporting VAI in a variety of ways.

“We investigate and evaluate the potential for funding programs in science education that will impact future generations,” said Rottman. “One of the most exciting things happening

in science education today involves the introduction of inquiry-based learning and professional development for teachers, and that’s originating here at Van Andel Institute.”

Support = GrowthRottman also serves as an advisor for Van Andel Education Institute’s growth initiatives, and continually supports donor outreach efforts to encourage others to give to VAI.

“When you can see growth as a direct result of your support, that is important to a donor,” said Rottman. “We continue to support the Science Academy at VAI because of the impact they’re having on education across the nation as well as the programs offered to students right here in Grand Rapids.”

Your support can also play a vital role in the Science Academy’s ability to inspire students across the country. 100% of every gift to Van Andel Education Institute supports science education initiatives that are equipping teachers and encouraging students to love science.

Donor Spotlight: A Legacy of Science and EducationIncluding a gift to Van Andel Education Institute in your annual or estate gift planning shows commitment to research and education and leaves a long-lasting legacy. For Doug Rottman, executive director of the Rottman Family Charitable Foundation, his family’s annual gift supports the Institute’s Science Academy, honoring his father’s work as a scientist.

"When you can see growth as a direct result of your support, that is important to a donor."

— Doug Rottman

Morgan, Brian, Doug, and Marielle Rottman

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Monica Mitidieri, owner of Monica’s Cookies in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a creative entrepreneur and cookie aficionado. Mitidieri founded Monica’s Cookies in 1991, and she has made a point to connect her passion for the perfect cookie to important community causes.

Liz Bartrom fulfills a different gratification at Chasing Vanity Salon & Spa, where she welcomes those looking to pamper themselves with a pedicure or manicure.

Jordan Notenbaum, Steve Barnes and Garry VonMyher, three young entrepreneurs who started Genius Phone Repair, supply customers with relief by returning restored and repaired smartphones to elated owners who feared the worst.

Each of these entrepreneurs specializes in putting smiles on the faces of their customers, but it’s their heart for giving that brought them together this spring.

The Importance of Giving BackBy partnering with Purple Community, these business owners generated funds for Van Andel Institute's (VAI) research labs and science classrooms.

“Giving back is important, especially when it supports medical research and science education,” said Mitidieri. “The most rewarding aspect is that 100% of the proceeds we raised are going directly to research labs and science classrooms at Van Andel Institute.”

Through purplecommunity.org, business owners are able to connect with a Purple Community coordinator who can help customize programs and direct funds to VAI’s research or education initiatives.

100% ImpactThroughout the month of March, special-edition Purple Cookies from Monica’s Bakery raised funds for VAI. In April, 20 percent of all pedicure sales at Chasing Vanity Salon & Spa were contributed to cancer research labs at VAI. In May, Genius Phone Repair donated iPads as prizes for the Institute’s inaugural Purple Community 5K, where funds will support cancer research and Parkinson’s disease research.

Thanks to the generous giving of corporate partners like Monica’s Cookies, Chasing Vanity Salon & Spa and Genius Phone Repair, biomedical research and science education programs at VAI receive critical support.

Entrepreneurs Find Their Cause in Purple Community

Monica's Gourmet Cookies 3668 29th St, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 monicasbest.com

Chasing Vanity Salon & Spa 150 Wealthy St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 chasingvanitysalon.com

Genius Phone Repair Locations in Michigan and Indiana geniusphonerepair.com



Winterfest, Van Andel Institute’s premier gala benefiting Parkinson’s disease, took place February 19 at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. The signature special event marked its 10-year anniversary and $1 million in cash and in-kind donations received. Winterfest featured heartfelt remarks from event co-chairs, Blair and George Sharpe Jr., along with their wives Missy and Michelle, as well as Van Andel Research Institute’s Dr. Patrik Brundin and Parkinson’s patient advocate Ron Rutkowski. Restaurants including Six.One.Six., Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, CitySēn, San Chez, The Chop House, Twisted Rooster, Furniture City Creamery and Desserts by Lori featured delectable strolling dinner menu items and specialty desserts. Thank you to Winterfest Title Sponsor Warner Norcross & Judd for their continued support of this successful event.

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Neiman Marcus in Troy, Michigan partnered with Van Andel Institute for the Art of Fashion and Research on March 12. The event featured a champagne reception, fashion show, luncheon and exclusive shopping opportunities. Carol Van Andel spoke about the mission and vision of the Institute and the importance of philanthropic support. Thank you to Neiman Marcus and Renee Janovsky, general manager, and Ken Dewey, style advisor, who made this incredible event possible. This unique event was such a success that Neiman Marcus has already committed to a second annual Art of Fashion and Research for 2016.



Members of Van Andel Institute (VAI) and David and Carol Van Andel traveled to Atlanta, Georgia and Naples, Florida for Van Andel Institute National Initiative events this spring. In Atlanta, celebrity Chef Marvin Woods prepared a delicious meal for attendees, and in Naples, Board of Governors member Tony Assalta, founder of VAI's Winterfest event, hosted friends of the Institute. Atlanta and Naples mark the beginning of a full year of nationally-focused events with the goal of amplifying the Institute’s mission among new audiences. Thank you to Modern Luxury for helping promote and support these national events.

Van Andel Institute National Initiatives: ATLANTA, GEORGIA | NAPLES, FLORIDA

When Michael Dykstra met Van Andel Research Institute’s (VARI) Dr. Anthony Chang, Dykstra’s life took on a new direction. An intellectually curious college freshman at Grand Valley State University, Dykstra was exposed to molecular imaging while participating in an internship program at Stanford University. Molecular imaging uses innovative technology to view cellular function and molecular pathways in living organisms. It can be used as a diagnostic tool for cancer, as well as neurological and cardiovascular diseases, and provides visual and quantitative information for diverse research applications.

Dykstra was fascinated by what could be done with imaging and, through

an online search, he discovered Van Andel Research Institute (VARI) and Dr. Chang. Following a thorough interview process, Dykstra was given an internship at VARI, an opportunity that changed his life.

Training Visionary LeadersThe routine in the imaging facility is rigorous, and interns are expected to participate in equipment instruction, critical thinking, analysis of current research papers and weekly presentations regarding the field of molecular imaging. While the internship is demanding, the goal is to mold individuals who are adventurous in their work. There is a sign in Chang’s research space that reads “Bold, Honest and Dedicated”. These three words serve as the lab’s motto.

“I don’t just concentrate on the technical aspects of the work. When you’re working with brilliant people, it’s more important to allow them to be strategic problem solvers because the world needs people who can think in a visionary way,” Chang said. “I want to train leaders—the people who can create big picture ideas. “

A Bright Future Dykstra’s hard work has paid big dividends—he is the first Grand Valley State University graduate to be accepted to the prestigious Harvard University Medical School, and he credits his time spent at VARI with helping to shape his future.

“I think Anthony’s desire to build us as people is part of the reason we have these opportunities blossoming around us,” Dykstra said.

As a mentor, Chang views himself as an advocate for those, like Dykstra, who are brave enough to pursue their dreams.

“I want to help create an environment where students feel that they can take bold risks, be honest enough to learn from their failures, and be completely dedicated to their dreams of impacting human health,” Chang said.

Call 616.234.5030 or visit www.vai.org to learn more about Dr. Anthony Chang and his work in molecular imaging.

333 Bostwick Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503

The Mentor and the Student: Dr. Anthony Chang and Michael Dykstra

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Highlights of Hope - Spring/Summer 2015